ViaSat-1 in the Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR). Photo: SSL

[Via Satellite 11-05-201] Boeing has completed testing on its new anti-jamming communications technology, proving it is capable of operating as either a ground-based user terminal or satellite-based networking hub, enabling the military to send and receive secure communications at a lower cost by using existing terminals and satellites. The anti-jam technology uses a protected tactical waveform, which shields signals from interference by adversaries or cyber-terrorists.

This demonstration complements previous on-orbit demonstrations over satellites such as ViaSat 1 and the sixth Wideband Global Satcom (WGS 6), showing the ability to operate anti-jam waveforms over existing commercial and military spacecraft.

The recent test was conducted between a Boeing ground terminal using a programmable modem, designed and developed by ViaSat using one of its commercial off-the-shelf platforms, and a ground terminal designed and built by MIT-Lincoln Laboratory. This testing was conducted under contract for the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center and supervised by the U.S. government.

“We’ve confirmed this technology can be applied quickly and affordably to existing assets, especially operational WGS satellites and ground terminals,” said Dan Hart, vice president of Boeing Government Satellite Systems.